Thursday, June 8, 2023

Revitalize Your Senses with Lemongrass Honey Tea: A Refreshing Wellness Brew

Lemongrass holds many healing properties and can be grown in pots or on the ground, thriving in Asian climates. When combined with the renowned health benefits of green tea and the natural sweetness of honey (though it should be used sparingly if controlling sugar levels), Lemongrass Honey Tea becomes a readily available homemade beverage. Start your day on a refreshing note with this invigorating and calming drink.

Wednesday, June 7, 2023

Zesty Malay Okra Salad: A Veggie Delight

As the trend of vegetarianism gains momentum, more and more people are embracing this lifestyle for reasons they hold dear. It's a commendable choice that aligns with the principles of sustainable development. Ideally, individuals who choose vegetarianism also adopt other eco-friendly (The Eco-Friendly Delight of Banana Leaves) practices such as cultivating their own vegetables, conserving energy, and nurturing nature in various ways, however small. 

While I'm not a strict vegetarian myself, I take a minimalist approach to consuming meat. As part of our corporate mission at Nava's Zen, I prioritize growing vegetables and herbs, practicing rainwater harvesting, and fostering a harmonious relationship with the natural world.

Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Restoran Top 1 Kopitiam: Malaysia's Vibrant Street Food Scene

As an avid food lover, I may not claim to be the world's top foodie, but I've had my fair share of dining experiences both within and outside my country. While traveling abroad, I've had the pleasure of indulging in various cuisines. I must confess, I'm not a picky eater and can enjoy a meal anywhere without following strict food rules. 

Unlike some self-proclaimed foodies, I embrace all sorts of culinary delights, except for beef due to my religious beliefs rooted in Hinduism. Although I cook regularly at home, I often take a break to explore the realm of dining out. Lately, I've found myself drawn to the fascinating world of street food, which offers a delightful array of flavors right here in Malaysia.

Zen Blooming: Ylang-Ylang's Therapeutic Delights

Ylang-Ylang, a cherished part of Nava's Zen, is a natural essence that perfectly aligns with our zen yoga-fitness-oriented nature therapy. As the gardener (Cultivating Convenient Gardening) I, Ms Nava, made sure to include this plant in my garden from the very beginning. Over time, it has grown to a substantial height, but I carefully trim it to maintain its size. 

The delightful aspect of ylang-ylang lies in its vibrant yellow flowers and their captivating scent. To enhance this aromatic experience, I even place some of the flowers in our rainwater barrel, where they gracefully float and infuse the water with their enchanting fragrance.

Saturday, June 3, 2023

Embracing Nature's Bounty: The Eco-Friendly Delight of Banana Leaves in Nava's Zen

At Nava's Zen, our commitment to sustainable development and environmental preservation runs deep. We understand the intrinsic connection between fitness and nature, and as both a fitness enthusiast and a gardener (Culivating Convenient Gardening), I am proud to cultivate this synergy. One aspect of our eco-friendliness is our profound appreciation for the produce we grow, incorporating it into our culinary practices. Among our cherished treasures is the versatile banana leaf. 

While modern alternatives like banana leaf plates exist, we remain loyal to our natural commitments, recognizing the multitude of benefits that banana leaves offer. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they also keep food warm and contribute to pollution reduction. Moreover, banana leaves enhance the visual appeal of food styling and presentation. Growing banana trees is an accessible endeavor, even in substantial-sized pots or smaller-sized varieties (Blossoming Passion: Gardening). At Nava's Zen, we wholeheartedly embrace eco-friendliness as our way of honoring and cherishing nature.

Friday, June 2, 2023

Personalized Diet Plans: Your Unique Weight Loss Journey

Losing weight and achieving your desired shape and size is a personal journey that requires careful consideration of various factors. While someone else's diet plan may have worked wonders for them, it's crucial to understand that one size does not fit all. We are unique individuals with different lifestyles, ages, professions, likes, and dislikes. This article aims to shed light on the importance of customized diet plans and the positive impact they can have on your weight loss journey.

Embrace Your Individuality

Every person's body is different, and what works for someone else may not necessarily work for you. It's essential to recognize and appreciate your individuality when it comes to your diet and weight loss goals. Your lifestyle, preferences, and specific needs should all be taken into account.

Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Cultivating Convenient Gardening: Welcoming Nature's Splendor

Join me on a journey through my personal gardening experiences, filled with mistakes, failures, and invaluable lessons (
Blossoming Passion: A Journey Of Gardening). Let me reveal the honest truths about home gardening and captivate you with the wonders it holds.

Home gardening should be a convenient endeavour, where simplicity reigns supreme. It's about finding an approach that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle. The essentials revolve around watering your plants according to their needs, providing fertilizers when necessary, and repotting those that have outgrown their containers. However, it's important to recognize that not all plants can be saved, and sometimes letting go is the only option. Consider replacing them with similar varieties or exploring new possibilities. Remember, the size of your garden matters. The larger it is, the more time you'll need to allocate for its care. Don't overlook the importance of keeping your surroundings clean, even if you're gardening in pots. Regular cleaning and sweeping will ensure a tidy and inviting atmosphere. The time you invest will depend on the number of plants you have.

Sunday, May 28, 2023

Revealing Radiant Skin: Inside My Daily Skincare Routine

Are you one of those people who are obsessed with their skin? Well, there's no shame in that. After all, our skin is the largest organ of our body and it deserves all the attention and care that we can give it (Embracing Eternal Youth With Yoga And Skincare Mantras). In this post, I want to focus specifically on the skin on our face because it is the most visible part of our body and it requires a different level of care than the rest of our skin. 

You might be wondering why I'm making a distinction between the skin on our face and the rest of our body. The reason is simple - the products that we use to take care of our skin are not all the same. For example, the lotion or cream that we use on our hands or legs might not be suitable for the delicate skin on our face. That's why it's important to use products that are specifically designed for the face.

Friday, May 26, 2023

Tantalizing Eurasian Pineapple Fish Curry

As an adventurous home cook, I love exploring various cuisines, but my husband's heart belongs to Indian food. However, I occasionally entice him to embark on a culinary journey beyond his cultural roots. One such venture is into the realm of Eurasian cuisine where I have experimented with a variety of dishes. And now, I proudly present to you the latest addition to my Eurasian repertoire: the tantalizing Eurasian Pineapple Salted Fish Curry.

Wednesday, May 24, 2023

Blossoming Passion: A Journey of Gardening, Learning, and Perseverance

Step into the tranquil beginnings of my journey in Kota Kemuning two decades ago, where amidst the calm, a yearning for vitality stirred. With my spouse often away, I craved solace and purpose. Balancing academia and domesticity, the idea of crafting a blog and delving into culinary ventures beckoned.

 

Yet, it was the sight of the barren plot outside my home that ignited an insatiable desire for lush greenery. Having only dabbled in indoor plants before, the notion of gardening felt foreign. However, the vast potential of this newfound space sparked an intense passion within me.

Saturday, May 20, 2023

Vegetarian Szechuan Stir-Fried Long Beans: Savor The Flavours

Vegetarian cuisine has come a long way, with more and more options available for those who prefer to eat plant-based meals. If you're looking for a tasty and healthy vegetarian dish, you'll love this Vegetarian Szechuan Stir-Fried Long Beans recipe. This dish is simple yet packed with flavor, featuring fresh long beans that are stir-fried with ginger, dried chilies and Szechuan peppercorns. The result is a dish that's both spicy and aromatic, with just the right amount of heat. It's the perfect side dish for any meal. 

Friday, May 19, 2023

Harmony and Rejuvenation: Embracing Eternal Youth with Yoga and Skincare Mantras

Have I mentioned how yoga can work wonders for anti-aging? If I haven't, my apologies, because the benefits of yoga go far beyond just flexibility and relaxation (Unveiling The Truths of Yoga & Yoga Magic). Picture this: while striking those yoga poses and engaging in mindful breathing, you're actually giving your body a secret weapon against aging.

Monday, May 15, 2023

Celebrating Women's Curves: The Hypocrisy of Society

The internet is abuzz with talks of self-acceptance, body positivity, and living one's truth. But despite all the push for women to embrace their bodies and be comfortable in their skin, there's still a double standard when it comes to women's age, size, and self-expression. Take the case of a plus-size woman who proudly posts pictures of herself on social media in tight or loose clothing, flaunting her curves and proclaiming self-love and acceptance. People cheer her on and comment her bravery for being true to herself, regardless of society's expectations and beauty standards. And yet, the same cannot be said for a woman in her late fifties who shares photos of herself in yoga outfits (Unveiling the Truth of Yoga) showcasing her fit and toned physique.

Saturday, May 13, 2023

Malaysian Wildboar Curry/Kattu Pandi Kulambu

I find it rather curious, or perhaps understandable, that among 10 Indians, only one or two would indulge in pork. While this doesn't particularly bother me, it's quite a phenomenon when dining with them, as they tend to avoid eateries serving pork dishes. This preference is more prevalent among the older generation, although a fair number of younger individuals do enjoy pork. Interestingly, those who abstain from pork often struggle to articulate the reasons behind their choice. Some perceive pork as unclean, while others cite religious beliefs. Many were simply not exposed to pork consumption by their parents, leading to a perpetuation of dietary habits. In general, Indians tend to favor familiarity over culinary exploration, which contrasts with my own adventurous palate.

Wednesday, May 10, 2023

Rotkohl (German Red Cabbage): A Taste of Tradition

My culinary journey began long ago, but it truly intensified after I got married. At first, cooking felt like a monotonous chore - repeatedly preparing the same dishes to please my husband's palate. It seemed as though cooking had been conveniently handed to me as part of my marriage responsibilities. Yet, as the years passed, I discovered the therapeutic joy of cooking. I began experimenting with dishes from around the world, eager to explore new flavors and techniques.

 

While my husband remained somewhat hesitant to try new foods, there were occasional surprises. When I introduced him to Rotkohl, a traditional German dish, his reaction was unexpectedly positive. He savored the soft, tangy bites of this vegetarian delight, a departure from our usual fare.

Monday, May 8, 2023

Discover Your Zen: Yoga for Everyone

Beginning on a zen yoga journey can feel intimidating, especially if you're new to the practice. It's natural to have concerns about flexibility or past experiences with strict instructors. But rest assured, yoga (yoga magic) is truly accessible to everyone, regardless of age, experience, or body type. 

 

I often hear questions like, "Am I too old to start yoga?" or "I've never done yoga before, can I still join?" These doubts are common, but they shouldn't hold you back. Some individuals hesitate to join despite reassurances, while others have had negative experiences that left them feeling discouraged and lacking confidence.

Friday, May 5, 2023

Yoga Magic - Ms. Nava's Journey To A New Lease Of Life

Zen yoga is undoubtedly at the heart of holistic wellness, a concept that continues to resonate in our modern world. It's the epitome of natural therapy, nurturing the breath, body, mind, and soul, with the power to reshape lives in unexpected ways.

 

However, it's essential to recognize that while yoga is a potent tool, it should never replace medical care. Doctors are vital in our healthcare system, offering essential services such as emergency care, managing chronic conditions, and collaborating with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive patient care. Yoga can complement traditional medical treatments but should never be seen as a substitute.

Monday, May 1, 2023

Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry (Vegetarian)

Looking for a tasty and healthy vegetarian recipe that is easy to make? This Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry is the perfect dish for you! This recipe is inspired by the classic Thai dish of Basil Chicken, making it a perfect meal for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. The secret to this delicious stir-fry is the combination of fresh ingredients that come together to create a complex and savory flavor. 

The tofu, a great source of protein, takes on the flavors of the aromatic basil, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Additionally, Thai Basil Tofu Stir-Fry is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking, whether you prefer a spicier or milder flavor.

Friday, April 28, 2023

Nava's Menopause: Zen Yoga Healing

Menopause, once cloaked in silence, now steps into the spotlight, shedding light on a journey often veiled in secrecy. As an Indian woman, I've traversed this path, navigating the turbulent waters of hormonal shifts and societal whispers. But remaining silent was not an option; I knew that by sharing my story, I could extend a comforting hand to others walking a similar path.

 

At 45, my body began its farewell to the reproductive years, yet the journey of menopause had commenced long before. It tiptoed into my life, casting shadows over my days and nights. The symptoms arrived uninvited: hot flashes, restless nights, and tears flowing without cause. Seeking guidance, I consulted medical experts, only to receive responses ranging from dismissive to disheartening. It was a male gynecologist who finally offered the advice I needed.

Thursday, April 20, 2023

Tantalizing Tomyam Fish: A Flavor Explosion

Tomyam - a name that resonates with food lovers worldwide, synonymous with the bold, unmistakable flavors of Thai cuisine. It's a culinary journey I've savored for years, honing my skills after exploring every nook and cranny of Thailand's diverse gastronomic landscape.

 

From the bustling streetside stalls to the refined elegance of upscale eateries, Thailand's culinary scene offers a spectrum of delights. Yet, amidst the array of options, one dish stands out - Tomyam. Its fiery spiciness can be a challenge to stomach at times, but oh, the rewards are worth it.

Hanoi, Vietnam: Unveiling Urban Wonders and Timeless Culture

From Ha Long Bay to Hanoi, our journey unfolded with anticipation ( HCMH , Angkor Wat & Siem Reap ), culminating in our arrival in the...